Jurjen Jacob "Jurrie" Koolhof (10 January 1960 – 28 January 2019) was a Dutch professional footballer best known as a prolific striker and later as a coach. Born in Beerta in the Netherlands, he built a long career in Dutch domestic football and finished with 190 league goals, a total that underlined his reputation as a consistent goalscorer.
Playing career
Koolhof played for several professional clubs in the Netherlands. His club career included spells at teams such as Vitesse Arnhem, F.C. Groningen and PSV Eindhoven. He was valued for his finishing ability, positional sense in the penalty area, and physical presence that allowed him to lead attacking lines. Descriptions of his game typically emphasize clinical striking and an instinct for goal.
At national level he was recognised as an international player for the Netherlands, earning selection and contributing at times when called upon. His trajectory from promising youth to reliable first-team forward made him a familiar figure in Dutch professional football through the 1980s and early 1990s.
Later roles and influence
After retiring as a player Koolhof remained involved in football as a coach and manager, working with clubs across the Dutch leagues and mentoring younger players. His knowledge of forward play and experience in top-level domestic competition were assets in these roles. He is remembered for helping shape attacking talent and for his straightforward approach to coaching.
- Position: Striker
- League goals: 190 (career total)
- Notable clubs: Vitesse Arnhem; F.C. Groningen; PSV Eindhoven
Personal life and legacy. Koolhof was the father of Dean Koolhof, who played professionally in the Netherlands, and Wesley Koolhof, who pursued a career in professional tennis. His family remained active in Dutch sport, and his contribution to football—both on the pitch and from the touchline—has been noted by peers and supporters.
Koolhof died on 28 January 2019 after a long illness in Duiven. Tributes at the time focused on his goalscoring record, his commitment to the game, and the influence he had on teammates and younger players during a career that spanned playing and coaching.